For over two weeks now the huge ‘Carol Mackie’ Daphne that’s right outside our front door has been delighting us and all visitors with its sweet scent. One of the first and best Plant Select offerings, it has put up admirably with very dry years and it never needs pruning or fussing over. Though I’ve heard these shrubs can die suddenly, mine is close to 25 years old.

Q: Every year my spinach gets leaf miner making the leaves inedible. How do I get miner free spinach?

Q:  When I install a bird house, should it be attached to a surface that doesn’t move, or is it okay to hang it from a branch.

Q:  I have a wren house I want to put out this spring. Previous houses I’ve put up had wasp nests, I have heard of applying wax to the inside of the roof but haven't tried it. Do you have other suggestions?

I’m stretched out in my hammock, dappled light through the Box elder warming my face, bird song vibrant, and there’s a soft breeze, warmer than usual for this time of year.  Ah, nothing to do but wait for spring… but then I startle awake!